Title

In the event the authentication server is unavailable, the network device must have a single local account of last resort defined. (Cat II impact)

Discussion

Authentication for administrative access to the device is required at all times. A single account of last resort can be created on the device's local database for use in an emergency such as when the authentication server is down or connectivity between the device and the authentication server is not operable. The console or local account of last resort logon credentials must be stored in a sealed envelope and kept in a safe.

Check Content

Review the network device configuration to determine if an authentication server is defined for gaining administrative access. If so, there must be only one account of last resort configured locally for an emergency. Verify the username and password for the local account of last resort is contained within a sealed envelope kept in a safe. If an authentication server is used and more than one local account exists, this is a finding.

Fix Text

Configure the device to only allow one local account of last resort for emergency access and store the credentials in a secure manner.

Additional Identifiers

Rule ID: SV-3966r6_rule

Vulnerability ID: V-3966

Group Title: More than one local account is defined.

Expert Comments

CCIs tied to check.

Controls tied to check. These are derived from the CCIs shown above.